In this podcast, host Dr. Drumm McNaughton welcomes guest James R. Johnsen, the former President of the University of Alaska System, who is now a Vice President of Executive Search for Greenwood Asher & Associates. Johnsen discusses his new book, "Public University Systems: Leveraging Scale in Higher Education," which examines the importance of and challenges facing public university systems across the U.S.
What higher ed leaders will gain from this podcast:
Understanding Public University Systems in Higher Education Governance
A comprehensive overview of public university systems, their prevalence, importance, and the challenges they face. The different types of systems – homogenous and heterogeneous – and how they are structured, governed, and operated. This knowledge will be valuable for leaders in understanding the landscape of higher education in the context of their institutions.
Leveraging Scale for Efficiency and Impact
Public university systems have a unique ability to leverage their scale to achieve political, social, and economic goals. Benefits include consolidation and collaboration in areas such as procurement, research administration, payroll, legal counsel, and accreditation. Leaders can identify and implement strategies to maximize efficiency and impact through system-level initiatives.
Navigating Political Dynamics in University Systems
Political dynamics shape public university systems significantly, with roles for governors, legislators, and boards in forming higher education policy and funding. Understanding this landscape and developing strategies for effective advocacy is essential.
Change Management and Leading Transformational Change
Higher education systems face challenges in implementing change due to bureaucratic structures. Effective change management requires a clear vision, strong leadership, and a culture that embraces experimentation and continuous improvement.
Prioritizing Student Success and Addressing State Needs
Aligning higher education with student and state needs is crucial. Leaders can prioritize student success by streamlining processes, improving transferability, and focusing on outcomes that benefit both individuals and society, ensuring institutions contribute to the state's economic and social well-being.
How Public University Systems Work (Or Don’t)
75% of American college students attend institutions within higher education systems. These systems aim to govern and coordinate public higher education within a state, yet effectiveness varies depending on structure, governance, and alignment with state goals.
Structure and Governance Models in Public University Systems
Public university systems vary in structure, affecting their governance and impact. Systems can be homogenous, like the University of California system, where institutions share similar missions, or heterogeneous, like the State University of New York system, which encompasses diverse missions. Governance models differ, with some states having a single board and others multiple boards with distinct responsibilities.
For example, Florida has a Board of Governors for the entire system, while each university has its own Board of Trustees.
Alignment and Collaboration for Higher Education Goals
A key factor in system effectiveness is the alignment between state government, the system, and individual institutions. The governor’s vision should guide the system board, which then aligns institutional goals. Without clear alignment, systems risk fragmentation, duplicated efforts, and resource competition.
Recommendations for Improving Public University Systems
Clarify Higher Purpose and Goals for System-Wide Alignment
Systems should articulate a higher purpose and align with the state's vision for higher education. This alignment enhances decision-making, resource allocation, and collaboration.
Strengthen Leadership and Governance Skills
System leaders need skills to navigate political landscapes, foster collaboration among institutions, and drive strategic change. Professional development focused on system leadership is essential.
Streamline Processes and Foster Collaboration in Higher Education Systems
Systems should streamline processes, reduce redundancy, and foster collaboration. Standardizing data collection, developing common course numbering for transferability, and creating shared service centers are effective strategies.
Promote Data-Driven Decision Making in University Systems
Effective governance relies on consistent, reliable data. Systems should invest in data infrastructure and analytics to support evidence-based decisions on resource allocation, program development, and student success.
Cultivate a Culture of Innovation and Experimentation in Higher Education
Encouraging a culture of innovation across institutions includes providing seed funding for pilot projects, enabling faculty collaboration, and celebrating successful innovations.
By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, public university systems can fulfill their mission of providing high-quality, accessible, and affordable education that meets the needs of students and the state.
Three Key Takeaways for University Presidents and Boards
These takeaways highlight the essential elements for effective leadership and governance within public university systems.
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Define a Higher Purpose
Clarify the system's higher purpose. This purpose serves as a guiding principle for all decisions and actions, providing a shared understanding of the system's ultimate aim. It should transcend individual institutional interests and unite stakeholders around a common vision.
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Align Goals and Plans
Align state goals, state plans, system goals, system plans, and institutional goals and plans. This hierarchical alignment ensures that efforts at all levels are coordinated and contribute to the overall vision and purpose. This framework reinforces the importance of a cohesive system working towards shared objectives.
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Develop Adaptive Leadership
Develop adaptive leadership capabilities across the entire university, not just among those in leadership positions. Adaptive leadership involves fostering a culture where individuals at all levels are empowered to identify challenges, propose solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances.
Read the full transcript at https://changinghighered.com/improving-public-university-systems-at-scale/
#HigherEducation #PublicUniversitySystems #ChangingHigherEd
About Our Podcast Guest
"I believe that success requires strong moral and ethical principles. As Vice President of Executive Search at Greenwood Asher & Associates, LLC, I aspire to live up to this notion by embracing change, building consensus, and establishing unity.
Before joining GA&A, I served as a senior fellow at the National Association of System Heads (NASH). I helped develop a transformation agenda for public university systems and was the founding director of its Systems Center for State Policy.
Well-versed in higher education planning and administration, I have written and presented research on higher-learning systems and taught graduate courses in negotiation.
With a knack for evidence-based approaches to strategic planning, I’m passionate about finding innovative ways to solve critical pain points and attain organizational goals."
Connect with Jim Johnsen on LinkedIn →
About the Host
Dr. Drumm McNaughton is Principal Consultant and CEO of The Change Leader, Inc. A highly sought-after higher education consultant with 20+ years of experience. Dr. McNaughton works with leadership, management, and boards of both U.S. and international institutions. His expertise spans key areas, including accreditation, governance, strategic planning, presidential onboarding, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic alliances.
Dr. McNaughton’s approach combines a holistic methodology with a deep understanding of the contemporary and evolving challenges facing higher education institutions worldwide to ensure his clients succeed in their mission.
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